Revealing My Secret ESEE IZULA Handle Hack and Why I Always Carry It

[@DB.KOOPER]

I have an izula II mounted to my Bino-harness and I've skinned several mule deer with it in the Idaho Backcountry. Such a lovely knife from a truly great company. I've got 9 Esee knives and they're all top-notch tools. They also make me scoff at all this hype over "corrosion resistance" these days when I've been taking 1095 knives in to the PNW mountains in ran and snow for over 40 years and NEVER had a rust issue that couldn;t be fixed in camp with 5min of work. The Esee Izula/Izula II and the Esee 4HM are an absolute PERFECT pair for any kind of work in the back country short of chopping down trees.

[@knifetimestory]

Another great comment. I too have no issue with carbon steel. Worked great for eons, and will continue to work great while people are scrambling to get the latest and greatest. In the right hands, 1095 is awesome. I vacillate between O1 and 1095 as to my preference. In all these years, I've never really decided which I like using the most.

[@Wastelander13]

I have the Esee 3 and the Izula for about 12 years and now also the 6 and never had any rust on any of them. I rarely put some oil on them. The rust talk is more from couch bushcrafters I think but not from real users.

[@SouthernKnifeLife]

@@knifetimestory I love these comments, I live in Florida and at one time about 75 yards from the ocean and never have had a rust issue and I had several O1 steel knives back then. The rust thing is definitely over hyped just like forcing a patina, just use your stuff and after a dinner or two it will be a pretty rainbow

[@freddyt86]

I know looks aren’t the most important, but those custom scales make it look fantastic.

[@knifetimestory]

Thank you very much! I really do appreciate it.

[@ROE1300]

👍 I have owned an Izula and an Izula2 (I prefer the 2). One I sold the other I gave to a friend. I have lived quite happily Izulaless for sometime. However, every time you feature the Izula in a video I get a strong urge to buy a new Izula2 and modify it. I have similar small knives (BPS Small EDC and CRKT Hunt’N Fisch) and don’t need an Izula2, but gosh darn it that Izula2 is one of the best small knives there is. Now thanks to this video I am off to a local Izula anonymous meeting. Having said all that, this was a good video.

[@knifetimestory]

Ha Ha. I hear ya. Even though I made that video...I carried both the Izula and Izula II today. Both sitting right hear on the desk. They are both awesome in their own way. I may try to make a similar handle for my Izula 2. Hope the meeting went well and worked for you. Keep me posted!!!

[@ROE1300]

@@knifetimestory The meeting brought me in from the ledge, but I still have that gnawing twinge to buy an Izula Ii and mod it. Perhaps I could gift the BPS knife, keep the CRKT, and get the Esee … 🤷🏻‍♂️

[@knifetimestory]

Hmmmm. That sounds like a nice plan. Keep me posted!!

[@21_Cabbage_]

Thanks for sharing, sir. I've carried mine in a lot of different ways, but my favorite is with no scales, looped to my belt with paracord, and dropped into the pocket.

[@knifetimestory]

That is a good way. I've seen lots of vids of folks doing it that way. Thanks for watching!!

[@remfj40]

Dressing up to go to the dollar store... Classic. Thanks for showing

[@knifetimestory]

Haha, right? Gotta keep it classy even when it’s just the dollar store! Thanks for tuning in!

[@ElJuIcE6o2]

Great video! Thank you for the idea. I just bought a DPx HEST Original D2, OD Green to do the exact same thing you did with scales to my Izula! 👊

[@knifetimestory]

You’re going to love it! Would love to see the final product!

[@kanukkarhu]

Super cool. What a great little knife!

[@knifetimestory]

It really is my friend. However, you need the IZULA II

[@kanukkarhu]

@@knifetimestory I have my Izula - my ESEE 3 HM! 😁

[@knifetimestory]

Ha! I guess the 3 is an Izula for you!!!

[@Daniel-yf9iy]

I have a similar knife that would be my “go to” if things got bad. It’s the older version of the Benchmade “Hidden Canyon Hunter.” Great knife.

[@knifetimestory]

The older version just never attracted me. The newer version on the other hand really does, but it has that darn sheath with the snap closure just like the Randall Made Knives and Bark River knife and Tops Knife I did a video about. If I could get it with a Kydex sheath, I'd go for it.

[@Daniel-yf9iy]

@@knifetimestory Yeah, the old sheets weren’t very good, but the knives were better, I thought, at least the way they feel in my hand and there are plenty of custom knife sheath makers.

[@armandcouture4655]

I have an Izula II and love it! I also have that same Tractor Supply Company hat!!

[@knifetimestory]

You too have great taste in knives and hats!!!

[@GODSPEEDTACTICAL]

I stopped dead in my tracks when I saw your Izula with the HEST scales, very nice! ESEE eventually came out with full micarta scales but the wrap wasn't good enough for me either. Always keep 20.00 and a percocet tab, one time on the same day a guy fell pretty hard so I gave him the tab and I forgot my wallet so I used the 20.00 for gas & lunch. Great video.

[@knifetimestory]

Ahhh. Love the Percocet idea. I've got some leftovers. Gonna have to make a swap. Thanks for sharing your story. I like to hear from like-minded folks who also think outside the box. Nice going!!

[@jimsmith5756]

After watching your videos on the Izula, I just ordered one, love your videos!

[@knifetimestory]

You are too kind. Thank you. I hope you enjoy your knife!!!

[@El_Famous_W01f]

I keep a $50 in my cell phone case case for emergency cash. It's saved my bacon a few times over the years. Nice video

[@knifetimestory]

Glad to hear it. We must all be able to save bacon.

[@brandonmitchell3617]

I have an Izula two and I just don't use it much. I have not found knives that size to be that useful for me but I keep it because I know it's a good knife and feel that someday I will come to appreciate it more and carry it.

[@knifetimestory]

I understand your conundrum. You may want to hold onto that knife. You just never know when the perfect job for it will come along and then you’ll fully appreciate its splendor.

[@gingebrien2408]

Haha I saw the headline & had to look. Still dreaming of an Izula II IN S35VN

[@knifetimestory]

Glad you liked the headline. Watch my newest Izula video and see how there will never ever be an Izula II in S35VN but with some cool aftermarket scales, you can have the next best thing.

[@thequackhouse4658]

@@gingebrien2408 or 3v 👍🏼

[@AdamB525]

What size and type of screws did you use? Thanks in advance. Are they Chicago screws? I can’t find those anywhere.

[@knifetimestory]

Back in the day, ESEE, then RAT supplied knives with Phillips head screws to attach the MOLLE stuff. I used those, along with the inner aluminum two sided nut that they used to assemble the 3's and 4's and everything else with. You should be able to see some of that in the video. Not sure where you would buy those things separately, but it sure makes putting that handle together a breeze.

[@chrishynes6091]

I got an old one I para wrapped. I don't use it much, keep it in the truck center consul. I pulled it out the other day cause I may try making a leather belt sheath. I don't like pocket carry.... that's for my Para 3 lightweight. ( If I had a son that was a knife it would be my Para 3 ) ❤

[@knifetimestory]

Well said. Thank you for watching and commenting. I appreciate it.

[@DrDennis]

Have owned my Izula ll with TKC scales for over 20 yrs. Love it. ❤

[@knifetimestory]

Great to hear! I'm sure it looks like a properly loved knife!!!

[@drhectorvetencourt]

Hello Dennis, it’s good to know, I wanted to know how your knife has aged in terms of rust? Is it still in good condition?

[@DrDennis]

@@drhectorvetencourt no rust at all so has aged gracefully over at least 20 yrs

[@johnm4110]

Close, I have a BK24, found some rosewood scales and a nice leather sheath from Cline knives.

[@knifetimestory]

That sounds like an awesome setup! Rosewood scales really add a nice touch, and a quality sheath is always a plus. Enjoy your BK24!

[@johnm4110]

@@knifetimestory I like it so far, the D2 holds up better than I thought it would. Really the only critique I can give it is it may be a bit thick for its size.

[@random_eskimo_in_the_rockies]

Some time ago I acquired my first Izula. It's the S35VN model to which TKC Extended scales have been added, and it came with an Armitus kydex sheath. I have to admit, I was remarkably impressed with how much I love that little knife. I carried it extensively on my right hip scout style on my belt. The Izula replaces the Spyderco Enuff 2 in K390, a knife I still love very much. Recently I purchased an Esee Pacaya, which is basically an Izula with a longer handle and a taller blade, albeit with about the same length. What really sold it to me was the steel: CPM-3V, my very favorite knife steel. I still carry the Izula occasionally, but the Pacaya has taken over most of my EDC duty. I'm contemplating one more Esee EDC purchase, the Magnacut Sencillo. Whatever happens, I think it safe to say that Esee has taken over my EDC duty from Cold Steel, Spyderco, and even my beloved Busse.

[@knifetimestory]

Sounds like your Izula is having a serious identity crisis with all those new friends in your collection! At this rate, you might need a bigger belt for all those EDC buddies!

[@random_eskimo_in_the_rockies]

@@knifetimestory Nah, one at a time. My Izula is in my truck center console, my Spyderco is in the jump kit/go bag in my Jeep. I am an Old School Boy Scout (from before they let Boy Scouts wear dresses) and I keep 72 hour emergency kits everywhere. I have two at work, two in every vehicle I own (Ford truck, Grand Cherokee, Honda Accord) and several in emergency locations around my pole barn, dug outs, and den.

[@knifetimestory]

Wow, it sounds like you're really prepared for anything! Your dedication to being ready is impressive. Keep up the great work!

[@alanrice39]

That Izula is really nice knife, like that handle. I have a ESEE CAMP LORE , it’s like a larger version of the Izula, has a leather sheath with the embossed backpacker on it, love it

[@knifetimestory]

Nice choice with the CAMP LORE! Those leather sheaths are classy. Knives like these are just too cool, right? What’s your favorite thing to use it for?

[@toto29er]

The Izula II is an excellent small knife! It is a mighty knife. Will last a lifetime if you take care of it

[@knifetimestory]

Absolutely. I'm sitting here at the desk with both the Izula and Izula II. It was one of those days where I could not make up my mind.

[@toto29er]

@@knifetimestory izula II for sure

[@Pippinm7]

Most helpful, useful, and informative knife video I have ever watched. Love the $100! If you could fit two $50 bills in the scales, that may help you get home, especially if you needed to offer someone $50 to take you and give them $50 when you get there. Just food for thought awesome video!

[@knifetimestory]

You are much too kind. Thank you. I shared your comment with my wife, who said that is the kind of comment that keeps you motivated. She is right. Thanks again. I like the two $50's. Maybe if I fold them just right, I can fit them. I'll give it a try.

[@THENEWWRANGLER]

can you share a link to get the hest handles you speak of?

[@knifetimestory]

They don't come like that. I had to cut and fit to get it to work. You can find the HEST on eBay or just Google it.

[@Maddawwg45]

i pocket carry my Joker Avispa w/kydex sheath and love it

[@knifetimestory]

Great idea.

[@jerryc5842]

I have the Izula II. Had to buy custom scales. Then bought custom sheath. In the end it's just ok. I bought a White River M1 in S35VN & burlap micarta and it just worked better. The two knives are about the same size. Glad you like the Izula. Too small for my hands. Izula II is bigger but have to spend on better scales and sheath to make it work. Could have just spent money on M1 and have a much better knife.

[@knifetimestory]

Thanks for sharing your experience! It's always interesting to see how different gear works for different people. The M1 sounds like a solid choice!

[@wazzeradk9398]

Love the Izula’s! Don’t you just feel better having one on you?

[@knifetimestory]

I know I sure do. I love that warm and fuzzy feeling!!

[@cold6959]

Never thought about putting something inside the handle, great idea tbh

[@knifetimestory]

Glad you like it. Hope you can give it a try.

[@jasonaffeldt7838]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts. I liked your idea of the cache of cash in the knife handle. That's like CIA or Q on Bond, James Bond kinda thinking 🤔. 🇺🇲🔪🔥🌲

[@knifetimestory]

Glad you liked it. Yep. My brain works like that.

[@FactFinderGeneral]

I will say Armatus sheaths are some of the best for these, hence why they have a brand deal with ESEE. Kydex has to break in which is why it was tight and the thumb rap is there because that's how it's intended to be used. Less to do with the sheath and more user error / preference.

[@knifetimestory]

Not Armatus. But thanks for playing.

[@rickyricardo976]

EDC knife is more of a utility knife for me, but its also a back-up to my EDC concealed firearm.

[@knifetimestory]

Exactly...however, mine is in no way, shape, or form a weapon. It is a utility knife just like your EDC. The firearm is a weapon officer. Not the knife.

[@tylertapp131]

Good stuff, hadnt seen anyone utilize the space in the grips in a long time, think one thing id do and this is just for personal preferences but id try to blue the screws or heat them to change the color of them. Just to give em a more finished look i guess, very cool though you had the vision of using grips frome something else to modify to use on your go to and also have a mindset to make it that much more utilitarian.

[@knifetimestory]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts! Bluing the screws sounds like a fantastic idea for that polished look. Keep in mind that those screws did start off black but from use have worn down. Thank you for watching and such a good comment.

[@tylertapp131]

@@knifetimestory oh wow that's wild, then yeah mabey the torch method would be better. Still get a finished look, just now it's the physical part changed and not a coat on it.

[@knifetimestory]

I'll have to look into how exactly to do that and see if I can pull it off. I bet that would look great. Thanks for the tip.

[@tylertapp131]

@@knifetimestory no doubt brotha, it's real easy it you got a small torch, glad I could help. God bless from ole Carolina.

[@knifetimestory]

I really appreciate your kind words! It’s awesome to connect with viewers like you. God bless!

[@davidwelsh1487]

I subscribed and like because you took the time to share your learning and wisdom. I am over 60 ,,,, Still live and breathe in Alaska.,,,,, again .. I did learn much from your time. ,,,, Thank 4 ur time. No need to reply ,,,, I don’t…. ! ...... also note ... i like ur type of humor.

[@knifetimestory]

Great comment. Thank you. Glad you enjoyed and I appreciate the support by subscribing. Nice to hear when people "get" me. It's all in fun. Thank you and be safe in Alaska!

[@Daniel_Richardson]

I ordered an Izula-II recently, will I have to worry about blood getting on the micarta scales? Will it stain or?

[@knifetimestory]

If you leave the blood on for awhile, I'm sure it will stain, but, with water and Dawn, you can darn near make them look new again in most cases.

[@sarge27271]

Nice setup. I did the same with my DPX HEST...lol I have four burn anywhere matches with striker and a cotton ball in vaseline in a baggie. My setup was for hiking and camping. I also have the Izula II, nice little tough blade. Stay Safe and keep em coming ;-) Cheers

[@knifetimestory]

Sounds like you're ready to tackle Mother Nature! With that setup, you could probably survive a zombie apocalypse... or at least roast some marshmallows!

[@sarge27271]

@@knifetimestory lol

[@gigglefactor72]

Great Channel. Love knives and swords.

[@knifetimestory]

I'm glad you're enjoying my videos! Thank you!

[@stephensgate1]

I love it.

[@knifetimestory]

Glad to hear it!

[@raal6163]

Let me guess, armatus? I purchased a kydex sheath from them for my esee 4 and the retention was absurd.

[@knifetimestory]

Good guess but no. Azwelke. Back when he first started out, I had to encourage him to start embossing his sheaths with his name, and drilling drain holes. The retention was unacceptable. That’s why I carved on this sheath as much as I did and re-shaped it. But yeah… somebody’s design was definitely inspired by somebody else’s. Not sure who came first.

[@Knyfefyte]

I have an Izula 2 and put similar scales on it and honestly it is just too small to be useful to me. It’s not good at cutting because the blade is so thick. Plus the coated blade makes cuts that much more tough. Nothing wrong with folks loving this little knife, it’s just my 2 cents is all.

[@knifetimestory]

Thank you for sharing your honest opinion! It's always great to hear different experiences, and your feedback can help others make informed choices. Yes...I've found the coating slows the blade down on cutting lots of stuff. The S35VN version is not guilty of that and is a much better knife.

[@mre4875]

Great idea, I would have left the 20s in the handle as some places wont accept a bill larger than 20. Still no Advil, LOL. Sub'd. You are a great story teller and I like your humor.

[@knifetimestory]

Thank you so much for subscribing! I'm thrilled to hear you enjoy my storytelling and humor. Your support means a lot to me and keeps me motivated.

[@airiksknifereviews9548]

Inflation survival adjustment 😉

[@knifetimestory]

Yep. Before Biden, I only had $50 in there.

[@brianrichard1768]

I Sold mine. The handle is bigger than the blade. Carry was annoying and I find folding knives more useful and easier to carry and conceal.

[@knifetimestory]

I respect that. My handle helps a little in the size department, but what really helps is the handle I show in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mGHOoGZnbNuSY9E That way I have a decent sized knife on my belt, and still can have a "pocket" knife for times a belt knife is just not called for.

[@stephenwest798]

Whether I'm in a suit or grease coved work clothes I'm dressed to go anywhere and if anybody don't like it. Well, you know what Clint Eastwood said. I have the version made by kabar, right handy little knife.

[@knifetimestory]

Sounds like you’re ready for anything! Just don’t show up to a black-tie event with grease stains and a knife-it might raise a few eyebrows! 😂

[@stephenwest798]

@@knifetimestory I would never show up to a black-tie event dressed for anything less and whatever I'd be carrying would for sure be concealed, more socially acceptable, and I would most certainly be wearing a pleasant smile.

[@knifetimestory]

It’s great to hear that you’d bring your best to a black-tie event! A concealed item and a pleasant smile sound like the perfect combo for making a lasting impression.

[@stephenwest798]

@@knifetimestory Well, if I'm dressed like everyone else and carrying concealed, I'd be just another ant on the ant hill and most likely wouldn't be noticed at all and if others there had high social IQ's most likely they will be concealed carrying as well. You are aware that our society has changed and why, right!? And if one has a CC permit then they without question or doubt passed the background test, right!? I know people from all walks of live with all levels of education who CC.

[@jrbarilla]

And now we can order scales Look at that ✌️🇺🇸

[@knifetimestory]

Yep!

[@scottnorvell2955]

Great mods!!!

[@knifetimestory]

Glad you like them!

[@CanadaFree-ce9jn]

You must be raking in the dough if you can afford the dollar store. I recently handled an Izula 2 but didn't like it, it was the same blade as my Izula and a longer handle just seemed to beg for a longer blade. The ratio was off for me.

[@knifetimestory]

Raking in the dough? More like raking in the pennies! But hey, a dollar store trip can feel like a high-stakes shopping spree sometimes!

[@TEXASPATRIOT1776]

New sub here! Just wanted to say thanks for the ideas you've given me. They'll definitely be put to use. Also, you remind me of a close friend & former manager of mine that passed away a few years back. He was not only a great friend but a truly amazing mentor & more of a father figure. I'll be checking out more of your videos and look forward to it. Kindest regards, -Randy ps - I have an ESEE 4 & several other knives in my collection. For whatever reason, I just never picked up an Izula. I've got one on the way now. 🥲😊

[@knifetimestory]

I truly appreciate your heartfelt message, Randy. It's touching to hear about your friend and mentor, and I'm honored to inspire you. Welcome to the community!

[@rossg4788]

Who's gonna have change to break a hundred? IMHO it's better to use smaller bills

[@knifetimestory]

I’d like to see you try and fit them in there.

[@orbeatnel]

Купюру надо завернуть в стрейчпленку, пойду сделаю и себе такое😅😅😅класс!

[@knifetimestory]

American money is waterproof. Glad you liked the video.

[@Victor-hb4hj]

Need gold in that handle as dollars could be toast

[@knifetimestory]

Because of inflation?

[@cecilm3720]

That's... a bill that many people won't dare to accept (it's $100).

[@knifetimestory]

Well, it is actually illegal to reject them. Regardless, I can't fit two $50's in there or five $20's, so I'll take my chances with the $100.

[@orbeatnel]

😊losing such a knife - a safe for money, would be more offensive by 100 dollars😢

[@knifetimestory]

Yes indeed.

[@shawnanderson9495]

Don't scratch up that belt!lol

[@knifetimestory]

I had to re-watch the video to see what you meant. Not too worried about that 25 year old belt. I mean my fancy Sunday go to church belt...and then maybe the dollar store!😁

[@shawnanderson9495]

@@knifetimestory you cracked me up,and I'm 67 yo

[@preparedsurvivalist2245]

Its "ee sue lah". There is no EYE or ZOO in the pronunciation.

[@knifetimestory]

Thank you. Honestly…how would I know that? I’ve always wondered.

[@preparedsurvivalist2245]

@@knifetimestory I dunno, maybe the fact that literally every other Izula video on youtube pronounces it correctly, or by just having a rudimentary understanding of Spanish pronunciation. A couple ways there, yea.

[@knifetimestory]

Lol, right? Guess I need to brush up on my Spanish! Thanks for the reminder!

[@orbeatnel]

😅 классная заначка от жены😂😂😂

[@knifetimestory]

That is actually a great idea. She would never think to look there.👍

[@American54]

Damn I don’t even have 100 dollar bills to hide

[@knifetimestory]

It’s all about finding creative ways to save! Every little bit helps, right?

[@patriotpreacher43]

Sounds like it's time to tighten your belt!😂

[@knifetimestory]

Tightening my belt? I hope that doesn’t mean I have to skip dessert!

[@maxsparks5183]

Oh heck no! I’d lose the knife AND $100.00 for sure. 😖

[@robertbush4808]

I feel like i just watched inflation happen in real time…

[@knifetimestory]

Because you did!!!

[@flashpb04]

Why don’t you just learn how to make knife scales instead of buying knives just to take their scales? It’s incredibly simple to make knife scales and then make recesses in the handles. Men used to be handy, especially men that enjoyed knives.

[@whatsthemonsterbelow]

This is stupid

[@knifetimestory]

So glad you found something you can relate to.